The Boundless Podcast's Episode 5, "Balancing AI and Human Interaction in Education," offers a valuable resource for educators, policy makers, and technology enthusiasts interested in the evolving landscape of educational technology.
The episode, featuring insights from experts including Richard Foster-Fletcher, Kurt Hintz, and myself, Scott Hayden, tackles several dimensions of integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) into educational settings, while cautioning against losing sight of human-centric approaches.The discussion is particularly timely given the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, which has accelerated the adoption of digital tools, thereby intensifying questions around ethical considerations, student engagement, and overall digital well-being. Kurt Hintz delves into the behavioural issues observed among students in this context, bringing to light the very real human aspects that we must continue to address even as we adopt more technology.
AI's role in professional development is examined, offering a glimpse into how automated coaching and performance analytics can contribute to more effective teaching practices. However, the importance of 'the human in the loop' is a recurring theme. Especially in the development of soft skills, often required in roles across industries including engineering, the necessity for human interaction is emphasised.
The episode also critiques conventional assessment methods, inviting educators to rethink these in light of more authentic formats enabled by digital platforms, such as blogs and vlogs. I contribute to this segment by discussing my experience with AI in marking assignments, stressing that while AI brings objectivity, it should not replace human judgement. Ethical considerations form a cornerstone of the episode.
The dialogue touches on the addictive nature of some AI tools and the heightened need for ethical guidelines, especially considering younger audiences who may be more susceptible to screen time addiction. I share perspectives on a digital well-being module conducted at BCoT, adding a layer to the conversation about responsible AI use.
In conclusion, the podcast serves as a comprehensive guide for stakeholders in education to navigate the promises and pitfalls of AI. It offers action items like the urgent need for ethical guidelines and a balanced approach to technology adoption. This episode is not just a listen; it's a call to action for educational institutions to engage in thoughtful implementation and ongoing dialogue about AI's role in education.
